Ten years after the kidnapping of 276 female students from Government Secondary School in Chibok, families of the remaining 87 captives continue to hold onto hope for their safe return to the community.
Allen Manasseh, spokesperson for the affected community, revealed this during a virtual program commemorating the 70th birthday of Pastor Chinedu Ezekwesili, husband of former Education Minister, Oby. The abduction occurred on April 14, 2014, when Boko Haram insurgents abducted 276 students from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State.
Despite 57 girls managing to escape by fleeing from the moving trucks, the fate of the remaining 87 remains unknown. Manasseh praised the Ezekwesili family for their support and sacrifices during this ordeal, noting that their efforts have contributed to the recovery of 132 Chibok girls, with 87 still missing.
Rinu Oduala, a political activist known for her involvement in the #EndSARS campaign, commended Pastor Ezekwesili and his wife for their selflessness and impact on the lives of many, including herself.
Former Head of Communications at the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Okey Ikechukwu, echoed similar sentiments, describing Pastor Ezekwesili as a humble and strong individual.
In response to the accolades, Ezekwesili expressed humility, feeling like an outsider listening to the tributes given in his honor.